Community
We will participate in creating a society where everyone can live with a sense of security.
Co-ops' Recovery Support for the Noto Peninsula Earthquake
Following the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in January 2024, JCCU and member co-ops dispatched staff to affected areas and launched fundraising. By July 2024, over ¥1.6 billion had been donated, including donation from iCO-OP Korea. Funds were presented to local governments in Ishikawa, Toyama, and Niigata Prefectures, as well as intermediary support organizations involved in victim assistance. Fundraising and support activities continued after the Oku-Noto Heavy Rain Disaster in September 2024. Under the slogan "Providing the longest and most caring support," we will stay close to those in need and offer thoughtful help.
Support for Babies from Day One with the "Pre-Birth Application" Program
CO-OP Kyosai has launched a new "pre-birth application" system, allowing expectant mothers to apply for medical coverage for their babies during pregnancy. By applying before the 22nd week of pregnancy, coverage begins at birth, regardless of the baby's health. The program covers a wide range of medical services, including hospitalization and outpatient care. Previously, coverage only started after birth, leaving some families without support for immediate medical needs. This initiative was developed in response to feedback from experienced parents.
Support for Local Governments' Watch-Over Activities
Co-ops across Japan have entered into "Community Watch Agreements" with local governments to support the safety and well-being of residents, including the elderly and families with children. Through attentive observation and casual interactions during product deliveries, these initiatives help identify potential problems early and prevent social isolation. As of May 2025, 1,308 municipalities have signed such agreements with co-ops, covering over 75% of all municipalities nationwide.
Creating Inclusive Shopping Spaces: Quiet Hour at Co-op Okinawa
Co-op Okinawa has introduced "Quiet Hour" at its stores to create a more comfortable shopping environment for people with sensory sensitivities. During this time, store lighting is dimmed, and background music and announcements are turned off to reduce sensory stress. The initiative was first held in April 2024 at two locations and received positive feedback from participants. In response, regular Quiet Hours began at Co-op Makiminato in July, taking place once a month on the third Thursday. Posters and flyers also raise community awareness about sensory-related challenges, making this a meaningful step toward inclusive retail spaces.
Shopping Support for Remote Island Communities
In its home delivery services, Japanese consumer co-ops offer flexible delivery methods tailored to local needs. For example, Shimane Co-op has introduced a "station system" in Okinoshima Town, a remote island in Shimane Prefecture that faces shopping challenges due to depopulation and an aging population, with mobile store vendors having withdrawn. Under this system, products ordered by members are loaded onto a truck, shipped to the island by ferry, and picked up once a week at designated stations managed and operated by co-op members themselves. In October 2024, a third station was opened in response to member requests. This initiative plays a vital role in supporting daily life, and membership continues to grow.
Mobile Supermarkets Supporting Daily Shopping Needs in Local Communities
Co-op Shiga’s “Attaka-bin” mobile supermarket supports elderly and isolated residents by delivering daily essentials to designated locations on fixed days and times. “Attaka” means “warm” in Japanese, reflecting the service’s caring spirit. Each vehicle carries 300–400 items, including fresh food, and responds to pre-orders. Started in 2023, the initiative also fosters community ties and safety through collaboration with local groups.
Shopping Support with Free Transportation from Members' Homes to Stores
In October 2016, Co-op Kobe launched a free shopping shuttle service to support people who have difficulty shopping. The service also provides co-op members with opportunities to socialize, and feedback from users has been overwhelmingly positive. As of May 2025, it operates at 38 stores.